By: Aja Beyai
Gambia is grappling with fuel shortages again, echoing the crises seen in 2024. Over the past two days, Greater Banjul residents have reported difficulties finding fuel, with even stations operated by the state-owned Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) running dry.
This has led to a drastic drop in gas station sales and heightened anxiety among commuters, leaving many drivers struggling to fill their tanks. The shortage has particularly affected long-distance travelers, who depend on readily available fuel to reach their destinations. The shortage has sparked concerns among the public, with many questioning whether this is due to scarcity or possibly hoarding by some fuel vendors.
The recent history of fuel supply issues in the country is attributed to price disputes and seems to be repeating itself, causing inconvenience and anxiety among Gambians.
The General Transport Workers Union also recently staged a national strike over the high fuel costs and tolls along the Senegal-Gambia bridge, adding pressure on the government to address the underlying fuel pricing and supply issues.
The Ministry of Petroleum has yet to issue a formal statement on fuel availability, but there is an urgent call for transparency and action to resolve the ongoing crisis. The public eagerly awaits explanations and solutions to ensure the fuel supply stabilizes, preventing further disruptions to daily life and commerce.
Speaking in an interview with the Alkamba Times, Steven Musa Foon, the station manager of Star Oil Birkama, reported a drastic drop in sales due to unexpected supply issues.
Foon highlighted that the leading cause of this crisis is the delay of a vessel meant to deliver oil. This has frustrated cash and coupon customers, who find securing the fuel they need for their daily activities increasingly difficult.
Experts say this crisis disrupts individual plans and threatens local businesses that rely on consistent fuel supplies to operate effectively.
Musa Conteh, an employee at Oryx Oil in Brikama, echoed these sentiments, stating that the lack of available stock harms business and customer retention. He noted that the ongoing shortage poses a significant challenge while managing limited supplies for regular customers.
Conteh pointed out that the situation is exacerbated by the fact that many products are being exported, further straining local availability.
Alhagie Faye, manager of Saloum Oil Company in Brikama, also acknowledged the adverse effects of the product shortage, stating that customers are leaving due to the inability to meet their fuel needs.
Dunbuya Sanyang, a commercial driver, shared his struggles with rising petrol prices and the lengths he has to go to acquire fuel, including paying other drivers to bring petrol from Senegal. He called on the government to intervene and provide support to ease the burden on drivers and businesses reliant on fuel.
Another driver, Dembo Manneh, expressed frustration, stating that the current fuel shortage has forced him to limit his trips, significantly impacting his earnings. He mentioned that many drivers now resort to sharing fuel, which is inconvenient and raises safety concerns.
Similarly, Lamin Touray, who operates a taxi service, echoed these sentiments, describing how the increased prices have made it challenging to maintain his vehicle and provide affordable rides to his customers. He urged the authorities to immediately stabilize the fuel supply and prices, as the ongoing crisis threatens their livelihoods and the overall transportation sector in The Gambia.
